Following KKR’s triumph over SRH in the IPL 2024 final, Venkatesh Iyer playfully teased Mitchell Starc by declaring Alyssa Healy, Starc’s wife and Australian women’s cricket team captain, as his favourite Australian at the moment. Healy had briefly joined the KKR camp during the tournament, adding to the camaraderie within the team.

In a light-hearted moment after the victory, Venkatesh’s jest had Starc chuckling, pretending to be offended before playfully walking off. Venkatesh explained that although Healy had to depart before the final, her support and well wishes meant a lot to the team.

“Alyssa is my most favorite Australian right now, not Mitch Starc. He comes in at No.2. It was wonderful to have family support on such a significant occasion. Despite Alyssa’s absence for the final, her pre-match messages were encouraging,” Venkatesh Iyer quipped.

WATCH – Rishabh Pant Hits The Gym Despite Jet Lag Ahead of ICC World Cup 2024

Mithcell Starc, acknowledging the importance of family support, credited their presence for the team’s success. Expressing gratitude for the backing received from the extended family and team staff, Starc emphasized their role in the team’s journey.

Who is Venkatesh Iyer’s favourite Australian? 🤔

The feeling of beating a formidable team in the #Final 😄

Champions corner ft. Venkatesh Iyer & Mitchell Starc 👌👌 – By @28anand & @ameyatilak

WATCH 🎥🔽 #TATAIPL | #KKRvSRH | #TheFinalCall

— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) May 27, 2024

“We’ve had our families here, and the messages of support from the rest of the staff were invaluable. Throughout the tournament, we felt their presence. Their unwavering support contributed significantly to our achievements,” Mitchell Starc noted.

The left-arm pacer acknowledged a positive shift in his IPL 2024 campaign since Healy joined him in India, attributing his improved performance to her presence.

ALSO READ: Dinesh Karthik Decodes Criticism On Virat Kohli’s Strike-rate

“Things have taken a turn for the better since Alyssa’s arrival,” Mitchell Starc admitted during an interview with Star Sports.

Despite a sluggish start, Starc hit his stride during the crucial stages of the tournament, earning Player of the Match honours in Qualifier 1 and the final against SRH. Ending the season with 17 wickets, Starc proved his worth after being the most expensive buy in IPL auction history.